Stretching can help reduce the chance of injury and improve your range of motion. 

You might think of stretching as something you do at the end of a workout, but flexibility is more than just a quick arm stretch, and it’s an important aspect of fitness.

Activities that are good for flexibility include yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi and stretching. These can be done alone, or in groups, either online or in person.

Below are three stretches you can do at home. Make sure your muscles are warmed up before you stretch. Doing stretches after other exercise is a great way to make sure you don’t hurt yourself doing them. 

When performing the stretches, move into them slowly, and only as far as is comfortable. If you are unsure about stretching on the floor, there are many chair-based alternatives. You should never force or jerk yourself into a stretch. Feeling the stretch is good, but pain is not. Hold each stretch for around 10 seconds, and then slowly release. Keep breathing all the way through. Always consult your doctor before starting a new programme of exercise.